ORIGIN

Early SoCal Special: 1953 Woodill Wildfire Roadster

We love the early fiberglass American specials, and this Woodill Wildfire is a very interesting example. These cars were manufactured in Downey, Califonia in very limited numbers, and could be had complete or in kit form. Below is a movie promo photo from Johnny Dark, in which a Wildfire was used in several racing scenes with actor Tony Curtis.

The example below has been previously assembled, but now needs restoration and modification. The chassis is from another vehicle and features a late 40’s Ford Flathead V8. The value in this purchase is in the engine and drivetrain. It is available here on eBay out of Tampa, Florida.

We would much rather have an authentic fiberglass project like this one than any Cobra or Beck replica. The frame for this car would likely need to be custom built, but the completed car would have value because of the intact body and Woodill ID number.

The majority of this Ford donor would be usable, but the wheelbase is 10-inches too long. The Flathead engine is a winner, and along with Cadillac engines was likely often sought for powering these cars.

We like the look of this roadster body just as much as the Glasspars and early Kellisons. This would be a great project and would feel like a budget build starting from scratch, just like these boys did back in Downey in the early 1950’s. Check out the auction for a good number of early factory and advertising photos.

My Mom has one of the very last turn-key cars! It was my father’s for over 40 years and was his pride and joy… we lost him unexpectedly this past fall. The car needs restored but it’s all there including the removable hardtop!